We will be motivated to reject materialism if we have strong faith that the end of the present system of things is imminent. People will, in effect, “throw their silver into the streets” because they will realize that “neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them in the day of Jehovah’s fury.” (Ezek. 7:19) Rather than focus on accumulating as much money as we can, we need to make decisions that help us to live simple yet balanced lives. That includes resisting the temptation to take on unnecessary debt or to get bogged down caring for many material things. We will also carefully avoid becoming overly attached to the possessions we already have. (Matt. 6:19, 24) Our faith may be tested with regard to material things and other matters as we wait for the end of this system to come. w24.09 11 ¶13-14

Likely, we can rid ourselves completely of some imperfect tendencies. But we might find that other inclinations continue to give us trouble. Consider the case of the apostle Peter. He gave in to fear of man when he denied Jesus three times. (Matt. 26:69-75) Peter seemed to have overcome that fear when he gave a bold witness before the Sanhedrin. (Acts 5:27-29) However, some years later, “fearing those of the circumcised class,” he temporarily stopped eating with Gentile Christians. (Gal. 2:11, 12) Peter’s fear had returned. Perhaps he was never completely free of it. We might find ourselves in a similar situation. However, we can resist a persistent tendency by following Jesus’ counsel to “keep on the watch.” (Matt. 26:41) Even when you feel strong, continue to avoid situations that can lead to temptation. Keep applying the strategies that brought you success.​—2 Pet. 3:14. w24.07 18-19 ¶17-19

No human has ever been as generous as Jesus. When on earth, he freely used his miraculous power to help others. (Luke 9:12-17) He gave the greatest gift of all by laying down his life for us. (John 15:13) Since his resurrection, Jesus has continued to be generous. Just as he promised, he has asked Jehovah to pour out holy spirit to teach and comfort us. (John 14:16, 17, ftn.; 16:13) And by means of our congregation meetings, Jesus continues to equip us to make disciples all over the earth. (Matt. 28:18-20) The apostle Paul wrote that after Jesus ascended to heaven, “he gave gifts in men.” (Eph. 4:7, 8) Paul explained that Jesus gave these gifts in order to support the congregation in various ways. (Eph. 1:22, 23; 4:11-13) Of course, these men are imperfect, so they make mistakes. (Jas. 3:2) But our Lord Jesus Christ uses them to help us; they are his gifts to us. w24.10 18 ¶1-2